Two bands with very different career trajectories -- Montrose and Lynyrd Skynyrd -- face off in the latest first round battle of February's UCR Hall of Fame election.

Each month, our readers will decide which of eight legendary artists or bands will be honored for their contributions to the genre with a permanent spot in our Hall of Fame. The original Montrose lineup only recorded two albums together, but the influence of the group's 1973 self-titled debut on their peers and future generations of rockers becomes more and more obvious with each passing year. The band was led by guitarist extraordinaire Ronnie Montrose, but has also become famous for introducing future solo star, Van Halen and Chickenfoot vocalist Sammy Hagar to the world.

Lynyrd Skynyrd is without a doubt the most important band in Southern rock history, and one of the most beloved and enduring groups of the last forty years. A 1977 plane crash took the lives of singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and vocalist Cassie Gaines just as the group was on the verge of super-stardom. It was 10 years before they reunited, with Van Zant's younger brother Johnny taking over vocal duties. Led by original guitarist Gary Rossington, they still record and tour to the delight of their loyal fans to this day.

So who gets to move on? It's your call. You can vote once a day from now until Feb. 16 in this first round battle. The next inductee to the Ultimate Classic Rock Hall of Fame will be announced on March 3.

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